Relating to lobbying by former statewide elected officers or members of their staffs; creating a criminal offense.
Impact
If enacted, HB3882 will significantly impact the lobbying landscape in Texas by creating a legal barrier for former statewide elected officials who may wish to engage in lobbying immediately after leaving office. By establishing a mandatory two-year waiting period, the bill seeks to enhance the integrity of the state's lobbying practices and reduce possible corruption. It reinforces the idea that those who have previously held influential positions should not be allowed to quickly transition into roles that could exploit their former connections.
Summary
House Bill 3882 introduces restrictions on lobbying activities for former statewide elected officers and members of their staffs. Specifically, it prohibits these individuals from engaging in lobbying activities that require registration under Chapter 305 of the Government Code for a period of two years following their departure from office. This legislation aims to address concerns regarding the influence of former elected officials on public policy making and ensure a cooling-off period to prevent potential conflicts of interest.